This article compares the Cannondale Supersix Evo and Canyon Ultimate.
I’ll help you understand the bike model lineups, specifications, and suggested retail prices in USD. I’ll explain the carbon fiber technology (Cannondale BallisTec and Canyon Carbon Fiber) and innovative frameset technologies on each bike.
The objective is to provide you with a clearer understanding of Cannondale Supersix Evo and Canyon Ultimate.
| Cannondale Supersix Evo | Canyon Ultimate | |
|---|---|---|
| Type of bike | Lightweight, all-rounder | All-rounder |
| Frame material | LAB71 carbon BallisTec Hi-Mod carbon BallisTec carbon | CFR carbon CF SLX carbon CF SL carbon |
| Frame sizes | 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 61 | XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Groupset | Shimano, SRAM (12-speed) | Shimano, SRAM (12-speed) |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc | Hydraulic disc |
| Price (USD) | $4,500 to $15,000 | $3,999 to $9,999 |
Cannondale Supersix Evo
The Cannondale SuperSix EVO is an all-rounder race bike.
For years, the Cannondale SuperSix EVO been known for being light, fast, and stiff on the climbs. At one point, many weight weenies were building sub-6kg bikes with the Cannondale SuperSix EVO.
In 2023, Cannondale launched the ultra-premium LAB71 version featuring their latest Series 0 (LAB71) carbon, taking over from the Hi-MOD version as the top-of-the-line offering. Three carbon grades are now used for the SuperSix EVO; BallisTec LAB71, BallisTec Hi-MOD, and BallisTec.
All Cannondale SuperSix EVO models are now electronic shifting and disc brake only. The flagship LAB71 models are equipped with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 only.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO LAB71 | LAB71 (Series 0) carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | HollowGram R-SL 50 | $15,000 |
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-MOD 1 | Hi-MOD carbon | SRAM Red eTap AXS | HollowGram R-SL 50 | $13,050 |
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-MOD 2 | Hi-MOD carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | HollowGram R-SL 50 | $8,300 |
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO 1 | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap AXS | HollowGram R-S 50 | $6,500 |
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO 2 | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | HollowGram R 45 | $5,500 |
| Cannondale SuperSix EVO 3 | Carbon | Shimano 105 Di2 (R7100) | DT Swiss R470 | $4,500 |
Cannondale SuperSix Evo vs others
Canyon Ultimate
The Canyon Ultimate is an all-rounder bike. Canyon claims that the Ultimate has an unrivaled stiffness-to-weight ratio, debunking the myth that a lightweight bike is not stiff enough to perform at the highest levels of cycling.
It’s the bike the pros rode to two World Championships and three Grand Tours wins in recent years with Alejandro Valverde, Nairo Quintana, and Richard Carapaz.
The flagship model, Canyon Ultimate CFR is the latest addition with the lightest setup weighing 6.52kg. The Ultimate CFR has the best electronic shifting groupsets from SRAM or Shimano. Next in line is the CF SLX weighing 6.98kg, and CF at 7.6kg.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canyon Ultimate CFR eTap | CFR carbon | SRAM Red eTap AXS | Zipp 353 NSW | $9,999 |
| Canyon Ultimate CFR Di2 | CFR carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 | DT Swiss PRC 1100 | $9,499 |
| Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 9 Di2 | CF SLX carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 | DT Swiss ARC 1100 | $6,999 |
| Canyon Ultimate CF SLX 8 Di2 | CF SLX carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R9200) | DT Swiss ARC 1400 | $5,499 |
| Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7 | CF SL carbon | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | DT Swiss P 1800 | $3,999 |
Canyon Ultimate vs others
Cannondale vs Canyon carbon fiber
Cannondale BallisTec Carbon
Cannondale BallisTec is a proprietary carbon fiber construction technique used to manufacture Cannondale bicycle frames.
The BallisTec carbon technology utilizes advanced engineering and construction methods to create frames that balance strength, stiffness, and weight. It involves the precise layering and placement of carbon fiber sheets, which are impregnated with epoxy resin and then molded under high pressure and temperature.
The BallisTec carbon is available in three grades.
- BallisTec LAB71 is Cannondale’s latest advancement in carbon construction. Also known as the Series 0 carbon, LAB71 is designed to be the lightest and most advanced, taking over from the Hi-MOD carbon. LAB71 frameset delivers exceptional performance, weight reduction, and overall ride quality.
- BallisTec Hi-MOD stands for High-Modulus, which refers to using high-modulus carbon fibers in the frame. This results in a stiffer and lighter structure, providing enhanced power transfer and a more responsive ride feel. Hi-MOD carbon frames are designed for riders who prioritize performance, stiffness, and weight savings.
- BallisTec is the standard carbon in Cannondale’s frames, which offers a balance of weight, stiffness, and durability at more affordable prices.
Canyon Carbon Fiber (CF)
Canyon’s innovative approach to bike design includes the utilization of advanced carbon fiber technology, resulting in performance-oriented bicycles that offer remarkable strength, reduced weight, and improved ride quality.
Canyon employs three main types of carbon fiber in their range of bikes; CFR, CF SLX, and CF SL, each offering unique benefits to cater to your needs and budgets.
- Canyon CFR (Canyon Factory Racing) Carbon is the top-tier carbon fiber used by Canyon, designed for maximum performance. Bikes built with CFR carbon are the lightest and stiffest in the Canyon line-up, favored by professional racers and serious enthusiasts alike. The CFR series represents the pinnacle of Canyon’s engineering prowess and innovation, employing state-of-the-art materials and advanced manufacturing techniques.
- Canyon CF SLX Carbon is a step below CFR, but it still offers exceptional performance characteristics. It used to be the highest-grade carbon in Canyon’s arsenal until the introduction of the CFR series. Bikes with CF SLX carbon frames provide a perfect balance of weight, stiffness, and comfort, making them highly versatile for a range of riding conditions.
- Canyon CF SL Carbon is the entry-level carbon fiber in Canyon’s range, but it still offers excellent performance. While it doesn’t quite match the extreme weight savings and stiffness of the CFR and CF SLX grades, CF SL frames are still impressively light and stiff, providing excellent performance for the value. Ideal for cyclists who desire a high-quality, performance-oriented bike without breaking the bank, the CF SL series is a testament to Canyon’s commitment to delivering value and performance.
Frameset technologies and innovations
Cannondale Supersix Evo and Canyon Ultimate framesets incorporate advanced technologies to enhance their bikes’ performance and ride characteristics.
Here’s an overview of the technologies used in each bike model.
Cannondale Supersix EVO
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| BallisTec carbon construction | A proprietary manufacturing technology that uses meticulously woven carbon fiber material to create strong and lightweight bike frames. The goal is to maximize the stiffness-to-weight ratio, providing riders with a responsive and efficient ride experience. Available in three grades; BallisTec LAB71, BallisTec Hi-MOD, and BallisTec. |
| Delta steerer | A unique steerer tube design for seamless cable integration to, reduce frontal area and drag. |
| Bottle integration | Integrated bottle cages and bottles designed for improved aerodynamics and streamlining. |
Canyon Ultimate
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| CFR Carbon | Canyon Factory Racing (CFR) Carbon is the highest-grade carbon fiber used by Canyon. It’s designed for ultimate performance, with CFR carbon frames being the lightest and stiffest in Canyon’s range. This carbon is employed for the most performance-driven models in Canyon’s lineup. |
| Pro Geometry | Pro Geometry is Canyon’s design approach that tailors each bike frame’s size with specific tube dimensions and carbon layups, optimizing performance and ride characteristics for riders of different sizes. This ensures that every rider, irrespective of their size, enjoys a consistent and optimal cycling experience. |
| Adjustable Cockpit CP0018 | The Canyon Ultimate CFR and CF SLX feature the innovative Cockpit CP0018, designed for aerodynamic efficiency and versatility. With fully internal cable routing, it offers a clean look and enhanced aerodynamics. The unique wing design allows for easy bike packing, eliminating the hassle of dealing with internal routing. Its innovative width adjustment feature lets you switch between narrow, medium, and wide settings (390-430mm) using just one tool. It provides a total adjustment range of 40mm (+/- 20mm on each side), allowing you to fine-tune your fit for comfort and efficiency. CP |
| Ultimate System Complete | This design principle ensures that the Canyon Ultimate is developed as a complete system, incorporating frame, fork, seat post, stem, handlebar, and even spacers into the design process. The goal is to maximize performance and rider comfort, making the Ultimate a highly-efficient and enjoyable bike to ride. |
| Aero Testing | Canyon uses cutting-edge technologies and tools to achieve aerodynamic efficiency, including wind tunnel testing and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). These tools help them simulate and analyze airflow over the bike, enabling Canyon to refine the design for optimal aerodynamics. Canyon’s rigorous testing approach ensures the Ultimate offers superior aerodynamic performance. |
Where to buy
Cannondale retailers
- Cannondale retailers. Use this tool to find your nearest Cannondale retailers.
Canyon shops
- Canyon online shop. Available to ship to most countries worldwide.
Bernard Lu has 7+ years of experience working in a bicycle shop, overseeing the retail and workshop operations. He’s a qualified bicycle mechanic who understands a cyclist’s needs and speaks the same cycling lingo.
If you meet him at the cafe, he will happily talk to you for hours about all the intricacies of bikes and cycling tech. Just buy him a coffee next time you see him.